Wednesday, September 29

Sea by Heidi R. Kling

In accordance with the FTC, Quill Café would like to disclose that the reviewer borrowed this book from the library. The opinions expressed are hers alone and no monetary compensation was offered to her by the author or publisher. Cover art is copyright of Putnam Juvenile and is used solely as an aide to the review.

Sienna Jones has feared flying and the ocean ever since her mother's plane went down three years ago. On her fifteenth birthday, her father invites her to join him to help orphans in Indonesia, six months after the tsunami.

Her desire to help trumps her reluctance, and at the orphanage she meets Deni, a boy who fled the tsunami but still holds hope for finding his father. Together they connect over what they've lost and what they have to live for.

Sea was a novel I had known about for a while but had never paid much attention to. I had no idea what it was actually about and my eyes glazed over when I saw the cover. I reserved it from my library and left it until right before it was due back. It was an easy deadline.

I've been finding lately that the books I wouldn't have rushed to read are the ones I really love. I'm glad I took a chance on Sea. I was side-stepping a potentially depressing read. I may not be a "sunshine and rainbows" kind of reader but I like to balance out my emotions where I can.

Sea was wonderful. It seemed so tangible, and I felt like I was travelling through the novel with Sienna, not just in the places she went but on her personal journey. It was fascinating to read about Indonesia, learning about the customs and seeing into the lives of those who were affected by the tsunami.

The characters are wonderful. I loved every moment of the book, and being transported somewhere so new and real. Heidi R. Kling tells a beautiful story, that transcends cultures and enlightens her readers. At least, that's how I felt.

I loved Sea and I can definitely see myself reading it again. The only thing I can add is to encourage others to read it and discover its wonders for themselves.